Term 3 Week 10 2025

A Message from the Principal

Dear parents and friends,

Wow, what an amazing performance from all of our students at the Winton Poetry Festival yesterday! I was extremely proud of the way our students conducted themselves both while waiting and on stage. They were very well rehearsed, which is a credit to our staff and families who practiced alongside them in preparation.

For those who weren’t in attendance, our Year 2 and Year 1 groups came 2nd and 3rd, followed by our Year 3 and Year 4 groups who also achieved 2nd and 3rd. Our Year 5/6 group placed 3rd. A very special mention must also go to our Prep students, who competed in the challenging Prep–Year 2 category. They did extremely well, knowing all of their lines — a huge achievement for students that young!

In addition to the group performances, our individual poetry performers shone brightly, with many placings from Prep to Year 6. A special congratulations to Elyssa S. on winning the Swagman Award for her recital of The Triantiwontigongolope.

These events cannot happen without strong organisation behind the scenes. A massive thank you to Ms Wall for coordinating the transport arrangements, to Mr KD for driving the bus, and to all staff and families for their efforts on the day.

Today, our students from Year 2–6 who achieved their AR Reader goals this term will celebrate at Edkins Park with a sausage sizzle and play. It was particularly pleasing to see Year 3 and Year 4 record the most students achieving their reading goals this term — a wonderful effort! AR Reader will continue next term, and I encourage families to support their children in reading for enjoyment while also earning points along the way.

As we approach the holidays, a quick reminder to please keep our uniform policy in mind, particularly around haircuts. Before getting that new “flash” haircut with tracks, double-check that it conforms to our school expectations. We have also noticed some mullet-style cuts dropping lower than the permitted collar length. The holidays are a great opportunity to tidy these up before returning in Term 4. Shoes can also sometimes be an issue — please ensure they are all black with no other colours so there are no disappointments when school resumes.

Finally, I would like to wish all families a safe and restful break. Term 4 is always a busy one, and it is incredible to think that there are only 8½ weeks left of 2025!

God bless,

Mr Peter Thurecht

Reflection - Sr Kym Harris OSB

Onto holidays

I suspect that this coming break could not come fast enough for many.  There has been so much ‘flu, Covid and other lurgies around that that time to rest and recoup is needed.

Aside from that, holidays are very much part of how we live.  School children have at least four holidays are year.  Most people take at least one extended holiday each year. They are an integral part of life. 

The word holiday is a contraction of the word ‘holy day’.  For us as Christians there is something sacred about taking our holidays.  So much of the media presents ‘holiday’ as getting away from it all, when it really is an opportunity to enter more deeply into the mystery of life.  These days are a chance to be together and take time to appreciate the aspects of life that can get lost in the busyness and routine of our daily lives. 

Holidays are often a time when we connect more closely with our families.  Imagine how closely camping brings families together.  Living in a tent close to nature is not necessarily easy but it does strip away a lot of the froth and bubble of daily life.  Fishing, swimming, playing cards, just relaxing with each other can open our eyes just a little to what heaven will be life.

As you begin these two weeks, set aside time just to be with each other, to take time to enjoy each other.  May these holidays become holy days discovering the mystery of each other.

Loving God, as we take time to rest and play with our families may you open the eyes of our hearts and minds to see and appreciate the mystery of each other.  We ask this in Jesus’ name confident that you will hear us.

Loving Father, Jesus experienced our life and suffered our death, that he might offer us the fullness of love.  Give me the courage to face the difficult places of my life that I might be a channel of your life in them.  I ask this in Jesus’ name confident that you will hear me.

Sr Kym Harris osb

APRE News

APRE Newsletter – Reflecting on Term 3, 2025

As Term 3 comes to a close, we look back with gratitude on a season filled with celebration, service, and spiritual growth. Each week brought opportunities to deepen our faith and strengthen our community. Here are some of the highlights:

Week 3 – Catholic Education Week

In Week 3, we celebrated Catholic Education Week with vibrant activities that brought our faith to life:

• Students participated in faith-based classroom learning, exploring scripture and the meaning of Catholic values.
• Each class contributed to a whole-school art project featuring Jubilee Clam Shells, symbolising our spiritual journey and connection to baptism.
• Students visited local businesses to deliver handmade gifts and messages of appreciation, extending our mission beyond the school gates.
• We concluded the week with a whole-school Mass at St Brigid’s, where we honoured the Spirit of Catholic Education and welcomed our new Semester 2 Student Representative Council.

Week 5 – Feast of the Assumption

In Week 5, we celebrated the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Students engaged in prayerful reflections and creative activities focused on Mary’s life and virtues. Prep to Year 4 attended a special Feast Day Mass at St Brigid’s Church, honouring Our Lady and deepening their understanding of her role in our faith.

Week 8 – Father’s Day Liturgy

In Week 8, Year 1 and Fr Rius led our Father’s Day Liturgy, a moving celebration of love, guidance, and faith. Students reflected on the importance of father figures and shared personal stories of those who have shaped their lives. A special prayer was offered for fathers, grandfathers, and all who take on the role of fatherhood.

Week 9 – Canonization & Child Protection

In Week 9, we celebrated the canonization of St Carlo Acutis, the Church’s first millennial saint. His life inspired students to reflect on how technology and creativity can be used to glorify God.

Looking Ahead to Term 4

Term 4 is shaping up to be a busy and joy-filled season, as always. Throughout October, we will participate in Socktober for Mission Month, raising funds to support those in need through fun and meaningful activities. We will also celebrate World Teachers’ Day, Remembrance Day, and our school’s Feast Day—Presentation Day, honouring the Feast of the Presentation of Mary in the Temple. As the term draws to a close, we will gather for our End of Year celebrations, Graduation, and the much-loved Prep Nativity. With so many special moments ahead, we look forward to continuing our journey of faith, learning, and community.

God Bless,
Mr Komndi-Diggins
Acting Assistant Principal – Religious Education

Student Protection

Student Protection is taken very seriously within our school and Diocese. Each year all staff undertake mandatory student protection training at the beginning of the year. This year our School Student Protection Officers are Mr Peter Thurecht, Mr Sahlie Komndi-Diggins, Mrs Belinda Thurecht and Ms Sarah Wall. If you have concerns, please do not hesitate to contact one of our officers.

School TV

SPECIAL REPORT: Respectful Language

In today’s world, it is common to hear socially offensive language on the streets, on social media channels, streaming services and in some forms of modern music. While swearing is becoming more common and less taboo, the use of derogatory language or the act of swearing at someone, or about someone, is a form of verbal violence. It transgresses the usual rules of social interaction by impinging on an individual’s self-image and sense of dignity.

It is becoming apparent that some young people are being influenced by the language they hear. Proliferating the use of swear words can sometimes normalise, glamorise and desensitise their impact for kids who may misunderstand the true meaning of some derogatory terms. Whilst some students may use swearing or derogatory terms as a misguided attempt at belonging, others may use it simply because they are still learning how to moderate their language and are not accustomed to making adjustments to suit different situations.

Although many schools enforce a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to swearing and derogatory language, parents need to also play an important part in enforcing this approach. Parents and carers can be proactive in monitoring what their children are viewing or being exposed to. Discussing the use of words or the origin of some derogatory terms and gaining insight into the reason behind their child’s use of such language can help prevent inappropriate or disrespectful language filtering into the classroom or the school yard, which is turn helps to build more tolerant, safe and connected communities.

This Special Report offers a number of guidelines to help manage a suitable approach when discussing the importance of respectful language.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report:
https://ollrok.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-respectful-language

2026 Schedule of Fees

Thank you for your continued support of Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School and for engaging with our school in
understanding the changes to Non-Government school funding and the impact on School fees, as we transition to
full implementation in 2029.

Below are the 2026 Schedule of Fees, along with the “School Fees Explained” and “School Fee Accounts” flyers. As in 2025, fees are presented as a single All-Inclusive Education Fee covering curriculum offerings, plus a Building Levy to support modern learning spaces.

The schedule outlines annual, term, and weekly payment options, with discounts available for eligible families and support for those experiencing financial hardship.

The “School Fees Explained” flyer, provides context on changes to Government funding and the Federal Government’s affordability assessment.

The “School Fee Accounts” flyer serves as a reminder of each family’s commitment to fee payment as a condition of enrolment. For any concerns or questions, please contact the school finance office.

Once again, thank you sincerely for your support of Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School. Please do not hesitate to
contact me with any queries that you may have.

2025 Term 4 Swimming Lessons

Swimming Lessons – Commencing Tuesday 14th October until Tuesday 25th November (7 lessons)

Annual Swimming Carnival – Friday 28th November 

Swimming lessons will commence in Week 2 of Term 4 for all students. Lessons will be held for all year levels on Tuesday with the exception of years 5 & 6 who will have their lesson on Friday morning.

To assist with the tight timetable, Year 3 and 4 students are required to come to school with their sun safe swimmers under their sports uniform. All other classes will get dressed at school prior to their lesson. As Prep are the last swimming lesson for the day they will not get changed back into their uniform to go home in the afternoon. Years 5 & 6 are required to come to school on Friday with their sun safe swimmers under their sports uniform.

Our swimming instructor this year will be Mrs. Lisa Neuendorf and support staff. 

Things every student will need: (please ensure that all belongings are named)

•    Sun safe swimming togs
•    Towel
•    Swimming cap
•    Goggles
•    Slip on shoes

Tuckshop Menu

PLEASE NOTE: POPCORN IS CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Revised School Policies

Stay up to date with revised school policies by visiting our school website. https://ollrok.catholic.edu.au/forms-policies

Homework Policy

Uniform Policy

Mobile Phone and Wearable Tech Statement

CSPQ - Our Lady's Catholic Primary School P&F

If you have ever felt puzzled over how to support your child’s reading, then this workshop, with a focus on middle years students, will offer you a variety of helpful strategies.

The session will include ideas that align with the Griff LinC approach. Click here to RSVP

Key Dates

St Brigid’s Parish News

Please follow us on Facebook for up to date information on what’s happening in the St Brigid’s Parish. https://m.facebook.com/people/Central-West-QLD-Catholic-Church/100080215845014/

Community Notices

The Smith Family - Strong Communities'

Bushkids

Royal Theatre Winton

Desert Channels Queensland

Central West Hospital & Health Services

RESQ - Driving Lessons

Longreach Sporting Opportunities